Brilliant news for Manchester Airport as the first regional airport to get the Airbus A380 to make a daily stopover in the city. This eye-catching aircraft is already a fixture at the world’s biggest international airports – such as Paris, Sydney and Heathrow.

Emirates airline will use the 517-seat plane for daily flights to Dubai and onward destinations from September. Manchester airport have spent £10 million to upgrade the terminal and airfield for the aircraft’s arrival.

The Emirates president, Tim Clark, said: “Manchester has been one of the strongest performers in our growing network of regional gateways, not only in the UK but globally. Our customers value our commitment to a regional network at a time when other airlines are abandoning them. This is a ground-breaking announcement for the airport and its global standing.”

The aircraft is not only large, but luxurious – in a world-first, if travellers choose to travel in first class then they will be treated to onboard shower spas! For anyone with £3,087 to spare then they will be able to book the private suite, book a massage, take advantage of a work desk, electronically controlled mini-bar and in-flight entertainment system.

For those without the pocket change of a millionaire, then return fares will start from £539 in economy and £2,309 in business class.

Andrew Cornish, the airport’s managing director, said: “This is a historic moment for this airport and the region we serve. The A380 is as iconic as Concorde and her introduction into Manchester by one of our most important carriers, Emirates, will provide a daily reminder that regional airports can support successful long-haul services.”